Next Steps for Move-In 🏡✨

Congratulations on securing your new property! To ensure a smooth transition, please follow the steps below. These steps align with British Columbia's Residential Tenancy Laws 📜.

Hopefully, you can benefit from this website and the many resources that have been compiled for you. 

As you begin the process of getting yourself set up to move in, here are some items that are immediately required and others that are recommended.  

Also, when moving, you will have other things to adjust, like your Drivers License and Passport & Nexus, and your mobile phone bill, among others; see below for some information to get started.

The lease document has important dates and information that you'll want to pay attention to, so you'll want to refer to it. After all parties have signed the lease, each of you should have received a copy; if you have not, please let us know right away.

1. Sign the Tenancy Agreement 📝

Before moving in, both you and the landlord must sign a written tenancy agreement. This document outlines the terms of your tenancy, including rent amount, payment dates, and other essential details.
➡️ Read more about tenancy agreements

2. Pay the Security and/or Pet Deposits 💰

A security deposit (up to half a month’s rent) is required to secure the rental unit. This deposit is held to cover any potential damages and must be returned at the end of the tenancy, minus any lawful deductions.

A pet deposit (up to half a month’s rent) is required. This deposit is held to cover any potential damages and must be returned at the end of the tenancy, minus any lawful deductions.

➡️ BC Security Deposit Regulations

3. Purchase Tenant Insurance 🛡️ (Required)

Tenant insurance with $2,000,000 in third-party liability coverage is required as per your lease agreement. This protects your personal belongings and covers liability if accidental damage occurs in the rental unit (e.g., water leaks, fire damage).
➡️ https://www.squareone.ca/tenant/bc
➡️https://www.bcaa.com/insurance/home/renters
➡️https://www.insurebc.ca/residential-insurance/renters-insurance
➡️ https://www.ratehub.ca/insurance/renters-insurance/british-columbia 

4. Set Up or Transfer Utilities and Services ⚡📞

Set up or transfer any utilities and services (electricity, water, internet, etc.) as specified in your lease agreement. Confirm which utilities are included in your rent and which are your responsibility.

• Electricity: BC Hydro New Account Setup  OR Transfer/Cancel Your Existing Account

• Natural Gas: Fortis BC - Open/Close/Move your account

• Water: This will likely be invoiced to you direcctly by your landlord depending on if it is an annual fixed amount or monthly variable amount, this will be an amount you will add to your rent.

• Internet/Cable: There are many providers, such as Rogers/Shaw, Telus, Eastlink, Starlink, Bell, etc. TIP: If possible, try not to get stuck in a multi-year contract, as they are very hard to change or break. 

5. Complete a Move-In Condition Inspection 🏠🔍

A move-in inspection is required to document the condition of the rental unit. You and the landlord must sign and keep a copy of the Condition Inspection Report to avoid disputes over damages at move-out.   Book Your Condition Inspection Now if not done so with your property manager already.

➡️ Condition Inspection Report Guide

6. Obtain Keys and Access Devices 🔑

You will receive keys and/or access devices before your move-in date. If locks have not been changed since the previous tenant, you can request this be done at no cost to you.

➡️ BC Tenant Lock Change Rules

7. Review House Rules and Policies 📜

Your lease agreement may include house rules, such as:
✅ Noise restrictions 🎶
✅ Pet policies 🐶
✅ Guidelines for shared spaces 🏡
Familiarizing yourself with these will help ensure a harmonious living environment.

8. Update Your Address 📬

Notify relevant parties of your new address, including:
📌 Employers
📌 Banks & Credit Card Companies
📌 Government Agencies (e.g., BC Services Card, Driver’s License, MSP)
📌 Service Providers (Internet, Cell Phone, Subscriptions)

➡️ BC Address Change Checklist
➡️ Updating Government ID
➡️ Updating MSP Account

9. Plan Your Move 📦🚚

If hiring professional movers or renting a vehicle, confirm the move-in procedures (e.g., designated moving times, elevator bookings for apartments). Make sure to plan early to avoid last-minute issues.

10. Introduce Yourself to Your Neighbours 👋

A friendly introduction to your new neighbours can help create a positive living environment. Good communication can go a long way in avoiding misunderstandings and building a sense of community.

11. Inspections

Mandatory quarterly inspections will happen for insurance purposes, and you can arrange a mutually agreeable time. If, however, a Notice to Enter is received, so long as it has more than 24 hours of written notice, this is also an acceptable standard. Please take a look at the link below to understand your rights and responsibilities fully.

➡️ Condition Inspections During Tenancy

Need Assistance? Contact Us! 📞📩

📧 Email: Greg@NichollsPropertyManagement.com
📞 Phone: 604-749-4676

🔹 Welcome to your new home! 🎉